Ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival on 19th December, we sat down with the team captain of Abu Dhabi Capital Dragons, Thair Haikal, to find out about the team’s upcoming race against other UAE-based dragon
boat teams.
The race is part of this year’s Volvo Ocean Race celebrations, in which Abu Dhabi is the second stop of nine in a global yacht race.
Tell us how you got into the sport.
I got into dragon boat racing after my previous employer created a team for an event in 2009. I joined in and loved it so much I joined the Dragons. The funny thing is that I was paddling with the team before I even learnt to swim.
I’ve been boating for five years now and I have learned so much from competing, such as timing and teamwork. I also enjoy teaching the sport to anyone who is interested in trying it out.
How much training is involved?
We train four times a week, 11 months a year. Each training session is 60 minutes. We also do land training, which includes running and boot camps.
How does it feel to be a part of the Volvo Ocean Race events?
It’s great to be included in the festivities of such a prominent international sporting event, especially with Team Abu Dhabi having done so well thus far. We are looking forward to competing against our peers such as Emirates Steel, Daman Dragons and Team Al Bandar. Look out for us from 9am to 5pm at Abu Dhabi Sailing & Yacht Club, close to Destination Village on the breakwater.
How do you fancy your chances?
All teams are strong and all work hard. We are doing our part and training hard on and off the boat, but we do feel good about this regatta.
How can people get involved in dragon boat racing?
We welcome everyone who would like to get fit and anyone with a passion for team water sports. Drop us an email at [email protected] or visit our website, www.capitaldragons.weebly.com
